In Olympia, Washington, a unique social enterprise called Relume is providing newly arrived refugees with paid work making sustainable candles. This opportunity is helping them overcome barriers like language and lack of local job history while earning income and rebuilding their lives in the US.
- Refugees gain work experience and English practice through candlemaking.
- Sustainable materials and recycled packaging support eco-conscious values.
- Earning wages helps refugees repay relocation debts and build independence.
What happened
Relume, a social enterprise based in Olympia, Washington, began hiring newly arrived refugees in the Pacific Northwest to hand-pour sustainable candles. Many of these refugees, like Maguno from the Congo and Eiman from Syria, had fled conflict and spent decades in camps before starting over in the US. The work offers a rare chance to earn an income, practice English daily, and build a US employment record — all important steps to integration and self-sufficiency.
Barriers such as limited English proficiency, lack of local job references, and employer hesitancy frequently left refugees without work opportunities. Relume addressed these by teaching the candlemaking process on the job, requiring no formal education and minimal language skills. The wages earned have enabled some workers to repay travel loans taken to resettle their families, restoring a sense of dignity and financial independence.
Why it feels good
For refugees like Maguno, working with Relume represents more than just a job. It is a pathway to reclaim autonomy and stability after years of displacement. Paying off relocation debts lifted a weight of obligation and affirmed that she could contribute honestly to her new community. The inclusive work environment provided not only income but connection, purpose, and the chance to practice English with colleagues.
Founders Rand Roedell and Karima Bassalé emphasize that hiring refugees has been joyful and fulfilling. Their solution helps overcome employer fears about language barriers and lack of references by focusing on accessible tasks and supportive integration. Plus, customers can feel good knowing their candle purchases support both sustainable practices and social impact.
What to enjoy or watch next
Relume’s candles are made from soy wax sourced from US-grown soybeans and feature phthalate-free fragrances and cotton wicks without harmful metals. Each candle is poured into recycled Spanish glass jars designed for reuse, marrying environmental sustainability with social enterprise. Anyone wanting to support refugee empowerment can visit Relume’s website or stores to buy these meaningful artisan products.
Looking ahead, the success of Relume could inspire similar ventures elsewhere aiming to provide newcomers with viable jobs that don’t require immediate fluency in English or traditional credentials. These models not only meet practical needs but foster inclusion, resilience, and community ties for refugees rebuilding lives.